Gumdrop Applesauce Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce cake packed with fruit-flavored gumdrops, raisins, and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or cozy desserts that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift 2 cups of flour over chopped gumdrops, raisins, and nuts; set aside.
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the well-beaten eggs to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Stir in applesauce, cinnamon, cloves, and salt until combined.
- Dissolve baking soda in water, then add to the batter.
- Gradually fold in the remaining flour and the sifted mixture from step 1.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. If gumdrops are hard to find, you can substitute with chopped fruit-flavored candies or even dried fruits like apricots for a different twist. Make sure to chop the gumdrops and nuts into small pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious served plain, but you can elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of whipped cream on the side. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Flora Raper'S Candied Yams for a delightful holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Gumdrop Applesauce Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Applesauce Cake contains roughly 780 calories, with 7g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 822mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are traditional, you can substitute with almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts for a unique flavor. Just be sure to chop the nuts into similar sizes for even distribution in the cake.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for better texture. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I freeze the Gumdrop Applesauce Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bring to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).